Looking after your mental wellbeing

It is normal to feel anxious or stressed in times of difficulty. Learn how to stay mentally healthy and where to get help if you are not coping or have concerns for others.

Impact of COVID-19

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on how we interact with others, go about our lives, our work, study and many other aspects of our lives. We know stress and uncertainty can have a significant impact on the mental wellbeing of people in New Zealand.

It is normal to not feel all right all the time — it is understandable to feel sad, distressed, worried, confused, anxious or angry during this time. Everyone reacts differently to difficult events, and some may find this time more challenging than others.

Everyone's emotional and mental wellbeing is important. Here you can find information on tools to support your own and others’ mental wellbeing and where to get help if you need it.

Where to find help

Do not be afraid to seek support. There are helpline services available right now that offer support, information and help for you, your family, whānau and friends.

For support with anxiety, distress or mental wellbeing, you can call or text 1737 to talk with a trained counsellor for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The Mental Health Foundation has a full list of services available.

Helplines and support (external link)

Te Whare Tapa Whā

Developed by Dr Mason Durie, Te Whare Tapa Whā speaks to the 4 cornerstones of Māori health and wellbeing. When there is an imbalance or 1 of the cornerstones is missing, we may feel unwell or out of sorts. We can use this model to help look after ourselves and those in our whānau.

This model reminds us to take care of all aspects of our lives to support our wellbeing.

The 4 cornerstones are:

  • taha tinana | physical wellbeing
  • taha hinengaro | mental wellbeing
  • taha wairua | spiritual wellbeing
  • taha whānau | family wellbeing.

Te Whare Tapa Whā | Mental Health Foundation (external link)




Staying safe online

During the COVID-19 pandemic many people are spending more time online. While the internet helps you connect with family members, friends and colleagues, there are also risks. Knowing how to stay safe online can help protect you and your whānau.

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